When faced with the task of transporting your vehicle, finding a reliable auto transport company might initially seem challenging. However, there are steps that you can follow to simplify and expedite the process.
During the quoting process, you’ll be required to provide specific details about your shipment, including the vehicle makes and model, pickup/drop-off locations and dates of transportation, and your choice between an open or enclosed carrier.
Be aware that some companies operate as brokers, acting as intermediaries between customers and carriers while charging additional fees. On the other hand, carrier-only firms typically offer more cost-effective prices as they don’t have to cover broker services costs.
Also, avoid companies utilizing giant lead aggregators, as these unauthorized entities can strain industry resources and potentially sell your contact information to untrustworthy transporters.
While researching transport companies, it’s essential to investigate their reputation and years of experience. If you ask them, “Do you need insurance to ship car?” and they don’t have an answer, choose another company. You really do need to pay particular attention to whether or not they boast exceptional or even sufficient supplemental insurance coverage, as bad things might go down that you may not be happy about.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Before shipping, ensure your vehicle is well-prepared by cleaning both its interior and exterior. Remove personal items that could be lost or damaged during transit, and document the vehicle’s condition through pictures, including preexisting damage for potential insurance claims.
Empty the gas tank and remove custom products, accessories, or additions that could increase theft risk or overall weight, minimizing both theft risks and shipping costs. Also, remove your toll tag to avoid additional toll fees during delivery.
Finalize the delivery by providing the driver with a complete set of keys, copies of registration, insurance, and other relevant documents. Turn off the car alarm to prevent it from triggering during transport, and document any additional inspection notes on the bill of lading for a visual record of the vehicle’s condition upon delivery.
Obtain a Quote
After researching and shortlisting companies, the next step is to get quotes. Many top car shipping companies offer online calculators for obtaining free estimates, allowing for efficient price comparisons without the need for extensive calls or waiting for callbacks.
Consider the season, as it can impact transport costs, with winter and summer being potentially more expensive due to adverse weather conditions and increased demand.
Note that while most reputable companies are upfront with their pricing, some may try to trick you into paying more by offering an initially low quote and then adding on extra charges later, as you can see here. To safeguard against this from happening to you, always read reviews on third-party review sites and look out for keywords such as timeliness, professionalism, and ease of use when searching for the ideal car shipping company for yourself.
Book a Pickup
Car shipping services simplify the process of selling a vehicle online, relocating for work, or changing your address. Before choosing a carrier, conduct thorough research, examining customer reviews, services, pricing structures, and insurance policies. Always verify the company’s registration with the Department of Transportation (DOT).
Once you’ve selected a few options, begin gathering quotes. Provide as much accurate information about your vehicle and pickup/delivery locations to receive accurate estimates; once you receive several, compare and select the best solution for you based on these estimates. It may also be beneficial to remove personal items prior to shipping since these could become lost or damaged during transport; also, thoroughly cleaning the car may make inspection easier upon arrival by transporters.
Booking in the off-peak season, such as fall instead of summer, may reduce shipping costs. Avoid peak season rates by scheduling shipments during periods of lower demand, potentially saving money as carriers may be less congested with deliveries.
For example, booking your shipment during January could save money as carriers may already be booked up with holiday deliveries and may need to delay other pick-ups or drop-offs in order to fulfill them.
Post Delivery Service
One key aspect of post-delivery services is car shipping insurance. After the vehicle reaches its destination, customers want assurance that their prized possession arrives in the same condition it left. Shipping insurance provides this peace of mind, covering potential damage that may occur during transit. It’s essential for customers to thoroughly understand the terms and conditions of the insurance policy, including any deductibles or specific coverage limitations.
Upon delivery, reputable car shipping companies offer thorough inspection processes. Customers should carefully examine their vehicles, checking for any damages or discrepancies. Promptly reporting any issues to the shipping company is crucial for initiating the insurance claim process. Reliable companies prioritize customer satisfaction and work diligently to address concerns promptly.
In addition to insurance, many car shipping companies provide additional post-delivery services to enhance the overall customer experience. These services may include professional detailing to ensure the vehicle is in pristine condition upon arrival. Some companies also offer storage options for customers who may not be able to receive their vehicles immediately.
Communication is key in post-delivery services. Reputable car shipping companies maintain open lines of communication with their customers, providing updates on the delivery status and addressing any concerns promptly. A dedicated customer support team is crucial for ensuring that customers feel supported throughout the entire process.
